A functioning electrical installation is one of the fundamental aspects of occupational safety
Testing the integrity of electrical installations is carried out because protection against electrical shock is one of the fundamental rules of occupational safety, which must be met by work equipment when in use. Since electrical installations are essential in any work process and facility, they need to be periodically inspected and tested to ensure they are safe and operational.
FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO KNOW MORE ABOUT:
INSPECTING THE SAFETY OF ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS
Malfunctioning electrical installations can be the cause of various incidents, ranging from fire hazards to endangering employees and disruptions in business operations due to breakdowns. This inspection involves testing insulation resistance, indirect contact, and the proper functioning of the residual current device (RCD) if present.
The inspection of the electrical installation is carried out using specialized equipment.
Its duration depends on the size of the space and the number of power outlets within the area. The inspection alone is not sufficient - it is essential to create an inspection report afterward, which includes a floor plan of the area with marked power outlets and the electrical distribution board.
In addition to being an employer's obligation established through the creation of a risk assessment at work, in the case of specific activities, this inspection is necessary to meet minimal technical requirements.
How long is the inspection of the electrical installations valid?
This inspection must be repeated every 4 years.
What is actually inspected in the inspection of electrical installation safety?
The inspection covers insulation resistance, indirect contact, and the proper functioning of the residual current device (RCD) if it exists.
We have moved to a new premises, and there is already an inspection report. Do we need to order an inspection for our company?
No, you do not need to. This inspection pertains solely to the space where the company operates, not the company itself. If the report was created within the last 4 years, you are in compliance.
We've had electrical work done. Do we need to repeat the inspection?
Yes.
How should we prepare for the inspection of electrical installation safety?
- It's essential to emphasize that we are solely inspectors, not electricians. In practice, it is very rare for electrical installations to be in such poor condition that a malfunction occurs during the inspection. It would be advisable to have an electrician available in case of a malfunction or if any defects are found.
- When we start the inspection, be prepared that at one point, you will lose power (during the testing of the residual current device). Our recommendation is to save all data and turn off computers and other electrical devices necessary for work during this part of the inspection.
Inspection and testing of electrical installations are carried out based on the Technical Regulations for Low-Voltage Electrical Installations (Official Gazette No. 05/10) and applicable standards. The Technical Regulations for Low-Voltage Electrical Installations prescribe the technical characteristics of low-voltage electrical installations in buildings, requirements for design, construction, usability, maintenance, and other requirements for electrical installations, as well as technical characteristics and other requirements for products intended for installation in electrical installations.
The frequency of regular inspections for the maintenance of electrical installations is conducted in accordance with the building project requirements but no less frequently than:
- Every four years for buildings of public use, unless specified otherwise by special regulations.
- Every four years for electrical installations for safety purposes, unless specified otherwise by special regulations.
- Every fifteen years for buildings or parts of buildings used for residential purposes.
- Every four years for all other buildings or their parts.
An inspection of the electrical installation is carried out after each change to it, after any extraordinary event that may affect the technical characteristics of the electrical installation or raise doubts about its usability, and upon request of the competent inspection authority.
Specialist for this service is:
Tomislav Nimac
Senior Expert in Occupational Safety
+385 (1) 28 52 117
+385 95 802 71 73
tomislav.nimac@anparo.hr
